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Situated on a wooded hillside in Stowe, Vermont, the Vermont Cabin by Olson Kundig is a three-level retreat designed to maximize a small footprint while offering an immersive experience of its natural surroundings. The 750-square-foot cabin was designed by Tom Kundig of Olson Kundig for a family that has owned land in the area for generations. The compact, vertical design was intended to foster intimacy and connection, both with each other and with the surrounding forests of central Vermont. The cabin’s material palette is an elemental mix of steel, wood, and concrete, chosen to reflect the character of the wilderness. The exterior features panels of weathering steel, while the interior showcases exposed timber and poured concrete. This rugged, utilitarian aesthetic is balanced by the warmth of natural materials and strategic use of glazing. The layout places the main living spaces on the top floor to maximize views of the surrounding landscape, including the Green Mountains and Worcester Range. Large windows open up the living area, allowing residents to feel a sense of being among the trees. The vertical arrangement of the cabin’s 2,250 square feet is divided across three levels connected by a maple and steel staircase. The lowest level is nestled into the hillside and contains a garage that can double as a game room, as well as a single bedroom and powder room. The middle level includes two additional bedrooms and a bathroom, while the top floor features the main living area, kitchen, and dining space. This design creates a cozy and efficient framework for family life while maintaining a strong visual connection to the wilderness. Project credits Architecture: Olson Kundig Design Principal: Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA General Contractor: Gristmill Builders Project Manager and Project Architect: Dawn McConaghy Photography: Aaron Leitz Structural Engineer: Silman Civil Engineer: Grenier Engineering Landscape Architect: Ambler Design Kinetic Design: Phil Turner Interior Design Staff: Amanda Chenoweth Architectural Staff: Ekram Hassen
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Olson Kundig:
Olson Kundig is an internationally recognized, award-winning design firm known for its collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach to architecture, landscape, interiors, and product design. Founded in Seattle in 1966 by Jim Olson, and led by a team of principal/owners, the firm has deep roots in the Pacific Northwest and a strong focus on projects that explore the relationship between the built and natural environment. They have a diverse portfolio, including residences (often for art collectors), museums, commercial projects, hospitality venues, and places of worship. Their designs are known for their contextual sensitivity, use of rugged and honest materials, and often feature custom, hand-crafted architectural details and mechanical elements. The firm is dedicated to sustainable design and has received numerous accolades, including the AIA Firm Award.
